Skip to main content

Why Is My Video Streaming Slow?

Fixes for slow video over mobile data: Private Relay, VPNs, and network limits.

Slow video on an otherwise working connection usually comes from network traffic management, a VPN, or Apple's Private Relay. If you have no connection at all, start with Why isn't my eSIM working?

1. Turn off Private Relay (iPhone)

In our experience, some networks slow down encrypted relay traffic, and Private Relay routes Safari and some app traffic that way.

  1. Go to Settings > [your name] > iCloud > Private Relay.

  2. Turn it off, then restart the streaming app and test again.

2. Disconnect your VPN

Turn the VPN off temporarily and test again. If speed returns, try a different VPN server or leave it off while streaming.

3. Switch between 4G and 5G

Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Voice & Data (iPhone) or Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Preferred network type (Android) and try the other mode.

4. Test on WiFi

If streaming is fine on WiFi, the limit is on the mobile network. If it is slow on WiFi too, the issue is likely the app or the streaming service.

Watch your data

Video uses data quickly, and on unlimited plans some networks apply fair use policies that reduce speed after heavy use. Check your remaining data: How to check your data usage. When good WiFi is available, use it for video.

Still not working? Contact us in support chat.

Did this answer your question?